Our History

The Lakeland Health Foundation was established in 1984 as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation to meet the needs of Lakeland Health and its affiliates. We are proud to provide philanthropic support for quality health care for the residents of southwest Michigan.

For more than 30 years, the Foundation has worked with individual donors and families, corporations, and foundations to generate resources through grants, charitable donations and bequests, which provide new equipment, expansion and renovation of hospital facilities and support for quality health care services.

Throughout the year, the Lakeland Health Foundations hold various events for donors and the public. These events present opportunities for the community to join in supporting the missions of our Foundations.

Every dollar that comes through the Foundation has a 30-to-1 impact. That is, to realize an amount equal to that dollar, Lakeland would have to produce $30 in normal operations to have the same benefit. Or, on a larger scale, for every $1 million we raise through philanthropy, the hospital would need to do $30 million in regular business. Needless to say, philanthropic support has significant power.

The diligence and dedication of our Foundation Board members who comprise the Lakeland Health Foundations keeps this program viable. Our Boards of Directors are: Lakeland Health Foundation, Benton Harbor/St. Joseph; Lakeland Health Foundation, Niles; Community Hospital Foundation, Watervliet; Hospice at Home; and Lory's Place. These Boards include over 80 volunteers whose mission is to raise funds that empower the caregivers at Lakeland to give exceptional and loving care every day.

With your help, Lakeland Health will remain the hospital of choice for thousands of patients throughout our community.

Mission Statements

Lakeland Health Foundations - St. Joseph/Benton Harbor and Niles

To improve the health-related quality of life in our community by providing and enhancing resources and support to Lakeland Health.

Community Hospital Foundation, Watervliet

To improve the health-related quality of life in our community by providing and enhancing resources and support to Lakeland Hospital, Watervliet.